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Mind training, stress and behaviour—A randomised experiment

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  • Yonas Alem
  • Hannah Behrendt
  • Michèle Belot
  • Anikó Bíró

Abstract

In this paper, we evaluate the effects of a psychological training, called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on stress and risk and time preferences. MBSR is a well-known psychological technique, which is believed to improve self-control and reduce stress. We conduct the experiment with 139 participants, half of whom receive the MBSR training, while the other half are asked to watch a documentary series, both over 4 consecutive weeks. Using a range of self-reported and physiological measures (such as cortisol measures), we find evidence that mindfulness training reduces perceived stress, but we only find weak evidence of effects on risk and inter-temporal attitudes.

Suggested Citation

  • Yonas Alem & Hannah Behrendt & Michèle Belot & Anikó Bíró, 2021. "Mind training, stress and behaviour—A randomised experiment," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 16(11), pages 1-24, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0258172
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258172
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Charness, Gary & Le Bihan, Yves & Villeval, Marie Claire, 2024. "Mindfulness training, cognitive performance and stress reduction," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 217(C), pages 207-226.

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